This is only one example of Ethiopian's magnificent history, which encompasses legend and tradition, mystery and fact, from a powerful and religious ancient civilization. The well trodden path through Ethiopia's famous and fascinating historical places takes you through a scenic, magnificent world of fairy tale names, such as Lalibela, Gondar, Axum and Bahir Dar.

Tour Itinerary:

Day 1: Addis - Dessie. In the morning depart by 4x4 vehicle north of Addis for Dessie (400 km) enjoying the rolling hillsides, dotted with picturesque villages. Overnight in the hotel.

Day 2: Lalibela. Leave for Lalibela (300 km) en-route visiting the old monastery of St. Istifanos on Lake Hayk. Overnight in the hotel.

Day 3: Lalibela town. The whole day explore in Lalibela town the eleven 13th century rock hewn churches, now acknowledged as one of the wonders of the world. Overnight in the hotel.

Day 4: Excursions out of Laibela and mule ride to Asheton Mariam to visit a high altitude church. After that drive to Yemrahane Kristos to visit the 13th century cave church adorned with fine wall paintings. Overnight in the hotel.

Day 5: Mekele. Depart for Mekele through dramatic highland scenery and serene agricultural hamlet. Overnight in the hotel.

Day 6: Axum. Drive to Axum (300 km) en-route visiting Yeha – the site of the country’s most ancient temple and Debre Damo Monastery / Tigray rock-churches. Overnight in the hotel.

Day 7: Full day sightseeing of the old town and visiting Archaeological Museum, stele fields, 6th century Kings Gebre-Meskel and Kaleb Necropolis, Epitaph of King Ezana, Tsion Mariam Church where the original Ark of Covenant is said to be housed and ruins of Queen Sheba Palace. Overnight in the hotel.

Day 8: Gondar. Leave for Gondar (360 km) through the awe-inspiring Simien Mountains, that contain some of the most beautiful scenery in Africa. Overnight in the hotel.

Day 10: Start the day with an excursion to Blue Nile Falls and a boat ride over Lake Tana to visit 14th century Ura Kidane Mihret Monastery known for its round grass-roofed church with magnificent wall murals. Overnight in the hotel.

Day 11: Addis Ababa. Drive back to Addis Ababa (560 km) visiting Blue Nile Gorge and 13th century Debre Libanos Monastery. End of the service.